There is currently no vaccine to prevent coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The best way to prevent illness is to avoid being exposed to this virus.

Reduce your riskWhile you can’t eliminate risk when leaving your home, there are ways to stay saf𝙚𝙧 if you do. You can use these scales to consider some of the many factors that could contribute to the risk of an activity. The more low-risk choices you make, the more protection you have from getting or spreading COVID-19. If you’re seeing people, talk to them about how you can stay on the greener side of these categories.

Wash your hands often with soap and water for at least 20 seconds especially after you have been in a public place, or after blowing your nose, coughing, or sneezing.

If soap and water are not readily available, use a hand sanitizer that contains at least 60% alcohol. Cover all surfaces of your hands and rub them together until they feel dry.

Wear a facemask

Under the Governor’s executive order 2020-77, any individual able to medically tolerate a face covering must wear a covering over his or her nose and mouth when in any enclosed public space, like the grocery store or pharmacy.

If you are sick: You should wear a facemask when you are around other people (e.g., sharing a room or vehicle) and before you enter a healthcare provider’s office. If you are not able to wear a facemask (for example, because it causes trouble breathing), then you should do your best to cover your coughs and sneezes, and people who are caring for you should wear a facemask if they enter your room. Learn what to do if you are sick.

Practice social distancing when out. Social distancing means keeping at least six feet between people as much as possible.

Do not touch your face or mouth, especially when out.

Stay home when you are sick, except to get medical care. Stay away from others in your home. Call ahead before going to your healthcare provider. Learn what to do if you are sick.

Cover your cough or sneeze with a tissue, then throw the tissue in the trash. If you don’t have a tissue, cough or sneeze into the inside of your elbow. Immediately wash your hands.